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Retro-inspired DSLR camera [New Straits Time (Malaysia)]

(New Straits Time (Malaysia) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) FUSION: A throwback style bundled with contemporary features makes the Nikon Df a fascinating camera to own, learns Arman Ahmad
Question: What is it?
Answer: A full-frame vintage-styled digital camera fashioned after the iconic Nikon F-series pentaprism cameras of yesteryear. The Nikon F was Nikon's first SLR camera and was a very popular model in the 1960s.

Question: What makes it special?
Answer: This is the smallest and lightest full-frame camera Nikon has to date. It has a sensor just like that on the flagship Nikon D4, a professional grade DSLR but housed in a relatively compact body. There are physical buttons for all main controls, which are dedicated to their use such as International Standards Organisation (ISO), aperture and shutter speed. There are no complicated menu systems to hide functions. Everything is represented by well- designed buttons on the weather-sealed, magnesium alloy body.

Question: How does it perform?
Answer: It has incredible image quality, especially in low light. The camera has impressive high ISO performance. The heart of the Nikon Df is a 16.2-megapixel, FX-format CMOS image sensor which is paired with an EXPEED three-image processor. It has a wide expanded ISO sensitivity range of as low as 50 to as high as 204,800 like seen on Nikon's D4. The camera produces breathtaking images. Paired with a f1.8, 50mm lens the camera can take sharp pictures under street lights. Not many cameras will come close to its available- light performance. You can hold off using the flash much more often.

Question: How does it feel to use the Nikon Df?
Answer: It is light and not too big. It has a big, clear full- frame viewfinder that will make it easy to frame your pictures. Some of the buttons are a bit clumsy to use, like the ISO, aperture and Mode dials. However, with enough use, the operation should become more intuitive.

Question: What lens can be used with it?
Answer: The camera comes as a kit with a special edition 50mm 1.8 lens produced specifically for it. Old Nikon lenses from film cameras can also be used on the Df.

Question: What are its drawbacks?
Answer: The biggest drawback on the Df is that it can't record video.

Question: Who should get it?
Answer: It would be a useful camera for reporters and bloggers as the Df performs extremely well in street photography and indoors with low lighting. With a 5.5fps shooting rate, this is not a suitable camera for those who want to take action and sports shots.

Question: How much does it cost?
Answer: It is available in two specifications: Body (black, silver) with AF-S 50mm f/1.8G (Special Edition) at RM9,688, and Body (black, silver) at RM8,888.